A 10-year-old from Elm Grove in Bossier Parish is being recognized statewide after a memorable hunting season earned him top honors from the Louisiana Wildlife Federation.
Madden Dowden was named the 2025 Youth Hunter of the Year male winner, an award presented annually by the Louisiana Wildlife Federation in partnership with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. The contest highlights young hunters who best represent the experience, responsibility, and tradition of hunting in Louisiana.
Dowden earned the recognition after harvesting his largest deer to date—a 200-pound buck—during a Thanksgiving break hunt in November.
According to his account, the moment came quickly after his father spotted movement.
“I found the buck in the scope and said ‘holy moly’ because of how big he was,” Dowden said. “My dad said I could shoot whenever, and then, boom, I shot.”
After the shot, the deer ran into nearby pine trees before collapsing within sight. The recovery, however, proved to be just as memorable as the hunt itself.
Dowden and his father initially attempted to drag the deer out of the woods but found it too heavy. They ultimately used a truck to retrieve it, navigating a narrow trail and using ratchet straps to load the buck.
Despite the challenges, Dowden described it as the best hunt of his life.
The Youth Hunter of the Year contest is open to Louisiana residents ages 15 and younger and requires participants to submit a written story and photos from their hunt. Winners are selected based on their experience, storytelling, and demonstration of hunting values.
Dowden was recognized for his achievement at the Louisiana Wildlife Federation’s 60th Annual Conservation Achievement Awards banquet held April 11, where he received a plaque and gift card.